12 Jul 2021

Government has proritised inclusive development especially in areas of special education to ensure that people with disabilities are embraced in the country’s  development agenda.

This was revealed by National Strategy Office (NSO) Director General Dr Grace Kgakge-Tabengwa when handing over protective equipment to Rankoromane School in Otse Friday.

The school provides primary school education for children with learning difficulties and related disabilities between the ages of five and 14.

Dr Kgakge-Tabengwa applauded the school for  playing a critical role in the inclusiveness of those with disability and ensuring that it embraced their contribution in the development agenda.

“The commendable work done by Camphill Community Trust of imparting knowledge to the disabled community has left us humbled. It is for this reason that our members of staff found it fitting to dig into their pockets to do something as a way of appreciating the good work and contributing to its safety,” she said.

She said government appreciated and encouraged public private partnerships in any effort that could move the country forward.

Dr Kgakge-Tabengwa handed over personal protective equipment worth around P9 000 consisting of face masks, dishwashing liquid, hand sanitisers, giant toilet paper rolls and disinfectants among others.

For his part Camphill Community Trust Director Mr Andreas Groth said there was much more to be done in the provision of special education.

He said they assisted members of the community who were not able to cope with mainstream schooling and education in general in order to participate in society.

He said they helped them develop cognitive skills and be part of the society.

Mr Groth said Botswana was working towards the ratification of the United Nations Convention of People with Disabilities, adding  that it would be a milestone in the way disability was regarded in the country.

He said the signing of the convention would also allow space in the development agenda for those with disabilities.

Rankoromane’s education programme addresses the full range of learning, nurturing and developmental needs of the child including activities of daily living, communication and other social skills. ENDS